Enjoying the Fulness of Christ with Christian Friends, Part 3

What kind of friend are you? A godly friend enjoys encouraging others to live out the fulness of Christ in their lives. He or she is willing to confront when necessary. Pastor Mike Knight completes his messages on “Enjoying the Fulness of Christ with Christian Friends” from Colossians 4:7-18.

To listen to Part 2 of this three-part message, click here.

7. Luke – A Doctor Friend (Colossians 4:14)

• His Background
- He was Paul’s personal physician.
- He was a Gentile believer who traveled with Paul on many of his missionary journeys.
- He was an educated, cultured man.

• His example teaches us
- You don’t have to have seminary training to serve God.
- God uses people with different occupations, skills, and abilities to accomplish His work.

8. Demas – A Disappointing Friend (Colossians 4:14)

• His Background
- He was with Paul in both of his imprisonments and one of his closest friends. (Philemon 24)
- He abandoned Paul, the church, and the Lord because of his love for the world. (2 Timothy 4:9-10)

• His example teaches us
- Not every professor of Christ is a true possessor of Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- True believers may backslide for a period of time but will not desert the Lord. (1 John 2:18-27) True believers persevere!

9. Nympha – A Godly Lady Friend (Colossians 4:15)

• Her Background
- The church in Laodicea met in her house.

• Her example teaches us
- God uses ordinary people to accomplish His purpose and build His church.

10. Archippus – A Young Ministerial Friend (Colossians 4:17)

• His Background
- He was probably Philemon’s son. (Philemon 1-2)
- Epaphras told Paul of his potential in ministry.

• Paul’s Challenge to Archippus
- Paul reminds him that his calling was from God.
- Paul challenges him to remain faithful.

Paul’s Final Words (Colossians 4:18)
• Remember me in prayer.
• Grace be with you.